The Police in Gauteng arrested two suspects who allegedly scammed and robbed an online buyer after placing adverts on social media about a car on sale. The duo was arrested in Hammanskraal on Monday, 28 November 2022.
Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo of Parktown Police said a case was reported to the police and following that the suspects’ activities online were monitored.
He said one of their victims reported that he saw an advertisement for a vehicle in the area of Dilopye, Hammanskraal and made contact with the seller.
“The same group of suspects allegedly placed another advertisement for the exact vehicle and the victim noticed it and informed the Investigating Officer. The suspects were then traced and arrested as they were about to scam and rob another unsuspecting victim,” he said.
The suspects are linked to several cases with the same modus operandi reported in Winterveld and other areas in Tshwane where people were robbed after responding to advertisements of goods that are sold online. They are expected to appear before the Temba Magistrates Court on Wednesday, 30 November 2022.
Gauteng Acting Provincial Commissioner Major General Tommy Mthombeni has commended the police for apprehending these suspects that have been preying on online traders in Tshwane, predominantly in Temba and Winterveld as well as other areas.
“These arrests will help us to crack down on online crime and to conclude a lot of cases where the same modus operandi was used,” said Major General Mthombeni.
Police are appealing to anyone who might have been the victim of the same crime or have information that can help the police in the investigation to call Colonel Freddie Mogotsi on 082 416 0659 or Sergeant Mary Makola on 082 930 1024.
